This article was contributed by Jennifer Mahan, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy. The Autism Society of North Carolina traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the Autism Society of America’s annual Day on the Hill for Autism Society advocates. Our goal in participating this year was to make sure that we voiced to…
Understanding Autism with the Hula Hoop Analogy
This article was contributed by Nancy Popkin, Autism Resource Specialist in the Charlotte region and mom to a son with autism. One of the keys to parenting, working with, or just hanging out with an individual with autism is to truly understand the core characteristics of autism. Applying these core characteristics enhances our understanding of…
NC ABLE Program Starts January 26
This article was contributed by Jennifer Mahan, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy. Beginning Thursday, January 26, people with disabilities and their families can save and invest without losing means-tested benefits. ABLE accounts are affordable, tax-advantaged accounts that allow eligible individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities that occurred before the age of 26 to save…
Staying Safe: ASNC Can Help
As parents, we do all we can to make sure that our children understand how to remain safe. What’s “stranger danger”? How do you cross the road safely? How do you ask for help when you get lost or separated? But if your child has autism, you may face additional challenges, such as wandering (also…
Sensory-Friendly Activities Ease Winter Blues
“Oh, the weather outside is frightful…” In these long winter months, many NC families are looking for indoor entertainment. It’s too cold to jump on the backyard trampoline, too icy to run at the park. Many will turn to indoor play areas, shows, and movies. But these are not always good options for families who…
Chef Pepper Jack’s Food Drive
When 17-year-old Jack Cullen began to notice people on streets holding signs requesting donations, food, or jobs, he started asking questions. He wanted to understand why they didn’t have food or jobs. He wondered whether they had homes or other belongings. The growing concern that Jack displayed led his Autism Support Professional, Holly, to ask…
’Tis the Season … for Opportunities!
Many families who have children and other family members with an Autism Spectrum Disorder have a collection of war stories and battle scars (emotional and physical) associated with the holiday season. Children, youth, and adults with autism who already struggle with over-stimulation, change, and disruption are bombarded with a barrage of sights, smells, sounds, schedule…